23 March 2021
There's a ban on overseas travel from Australia. You can’t leave Australia unless you have an exemption from the Department of Home Affairs, or are travelling to a destination that is exempt from the ban.
Our global travel advice remains at 'Do not travel' due to the health risks from the COVID-19 pandemic and the significant disruptions to global travel. Some destinations were already set at Do Not Travel prior to COVID-19 due to the extreme risk to your safety.
If you’re overseas and wish to return to Australia, be prepared for delays and read our advice on trying to get home.
When you arrive in Australia you must quarantine for 14 days at designated facilities in your port of arrival, unless you have an exemption or are travelling on a quarantine-free flight from a green zone destination. At this time, vaccination against COVID-19 does not change this quarantine requirement. You may be required to pay for the costs of your quarantine. View State and Territory Government COVID-19 information for information about quarantine and domestic borders.
If you're staying overseas, make plans to stay for an extended period. Follow the advice of local authorities and minimise your risk of exposure to COVID-19. Stay in touch with family and friends so they know you're safe.
Our network of embassies and consular posts around the world will provide you with up-to-date local advice and support throughout this difficult period. Be aware consular services may be limited due to local measures.
For the latest information, read and subscribe to our news and travel advice. Also see our COVID-19 information pages.
Call 112.
Call 112.
COVID-19 hotline: 1420
Call 199.
Call 155.
Do not travel to Cyprus due to the health risks from the COVID-19 pandemic and the significant disruptions to global travel.
Do not travel overseas due to the health risks from the COVID-19 pandemic and the significant disruptions to global travel.
Full travel advice: Safety
Full travel advice: Health
Full travel advice: Local laws
Full travel advice: Travel
Full travel advice: Local contacts
UN Buffer Zone
The Government of the Republic of Cyprus is the only internationally recognised authority in Cyprus. However, in practice, it only controls the southern part of the island.
The self-proclaimed 'Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus' ('TRNC') controls the northern part of Cyprus. Turkey is the only country that recognises the TRNC. There's also a Turkish military presence in the north.
A United Nations peacekeeping force (UNFICYP) controls a buffer zone between northern and southern Cyprus.
Be aware of the political sensitivity of the division of the island. Monitor local news for updates.
Violent incidents
There have been some violent incidents along the UN Buffer Zone (also known as 'The Green Line'). Rowdy, politically motivated behaviour has occurred among fans at local sporting matches.
Public protests and events that draw large groups of people can turn violent. This is particularly the case around the UN Buffer Zone.
To stay safe:
More information:
Petty crime
Bag-snatching, pickpocketing and petty theft happen, particularly in urban and tourist areas.
To reduce your risk of petty crime:
Violent crime
Serious violence, including physical assault, occurs. Media reports have linked the violence to organised crime. Be aware of your surroundings and take normal precautions.
Drink spiking
Drink spiking is a risk, especially in tourist areas. It puts you at higher risk of theft and sexual assault. Take reasonable steps to protect yourself.
To reduce your risk of drink spiking:
More information:
Theft around ATMs
Be careful when you use ATMs. If possible:
Scams
To protect yourself from scams:
More information:
While there have been no recent terrorist attacks in Cyprus, they can still happen.
Terrorism occurs in Europe. Terrorist attacks have taken place in a number of European cities.
Targets have included public transport and transport hubs, and public places frequented by foreigners.
European security services have disrupted a number of planned attacks in recent years.
To protect yourself from terrorism:
Report suspicious activity or items to police.
If there's an attack, leave the area as soon as it's safe. Avoid the affected area in case there are secondary attacks.
Terrorism is a threat worldwide.
More information:
Strong seas and rips at some beaches pose a risk to swimmers. To stay safe:
Transport and tour operators don't always follow safety and maintenance standards. This includes for:
If you plan to do an adventure activity:
If proper safety equipment isn't available, use another provider.
Some operators may ask for your passport as a deposit or guarantee for equipment hire. Passports are valuable documents. Never give your passport as a deposit or guarantee.
Cyprus experiences natural disasters and severe weather, including:
To protect yourself if there's a natural disaster or severe weather:
Cyprus experiences earthquakes. While large earthquakes are rare, minor earth tremors can happen.
Cyprus can experience violent storms and high winds in coastal regions.
Winter snowstorms occur in the Troodos Mountains. These storms can block roads or create poor driving conditions.
Cyprus has forest and grass fires during the long dry season from May until October. Fires are most common in the heavily forested and mountainous regions.
Get comprehensive travel insurance before you leave. A ban on overseas travel from Australia remains in place. You can’t leave Australia unless you get an exemption from the Department of Home Affairs.
Your policy needs to cover all overseas medical costs, including medical evacuation. The Australian Government won't pay for these costs.
If you can't afford travel insurance, you can't afford to travel. This applies to everyone, no matter how healthy and fit you are.
If you're not insured, you may have to pay many 1000s of dollars up-front for medical care.
Confirm:
Consider your physical and mental health before you travel, especially if you have an existing medical condition. Consider whether you may be in a vulnerable category for COVID-19.
See your doctor or travel clinic to:
Do this at least 8 weeks before you leave.
More information:
Not all medication available over the counter or by prescription in Australia is available in other countries. Some may even be considered illegal or a controlled substance, even if prescribed by an Australian doctor.
If you plan to bring medication, check if it's legal in Cyprus. Take enough legal medicine for your trip.
Carry a copy of your prescription and a letter from your doctor stating:
More information:
COVID-19
COVID-19 remains a risk in Cyprus. Call the 24/7 emergency hotline on 1420, if you're experiencing any symptoms or have any concerns. For general information on COVID-19 call 1412 between 8am and 8pm, Monday to Friday. You can read official government announcements relating to COVID-19.
For questions about the protocols and guidelines email covid@moh.gov.cy.
Turkish-Cypriot authorities have confirmed cases of COVID-19 in northern Cyprus. Call 1102, +90 533 850 11 88 or +90 548 850 11 88 if you're experiencing any symptoms or have any concerns.
More information:
Other Health Risks
Rodents, bats and other vermin can carry diseases that humans can catch. Take care to avoid contact with such animals in the countryside or at archaeological sites.
Outbreaks of water-borne, food-borne, insect-borne and other infectious diseases are common in the eastern Mediterranean region and can occur from time to time in Cyprus.
There have been reports of West Nile Virus cases in both south and north Cyprus. There's no vaccine to prevent it.
To protect yourself from disease:
Follow local media and authorities for up to date information on health risks.
Public and private facilities in the Republic of Cyprus's main cities are adequate but can be costly.
Medical services in northern Cyprus are more basic than in the south.
Cyprus has public and private decompression chambers. Check the Cyprus Dive Center Association for details.
If you become seriously ill or injured, you may be evacuated to a place with better facilities. Medical evacuation can be very expensive.
You're subject to local laws and penalties, including those that appear harsh by Australian standards. Research local laws before travelling, especially for an extended stay.
If you're arrested or jailed, the Australian Government will do what it can to help you under our Consular Services Charter. But we can't get you out of trouble or out of jail.
Cypriot authorities don't always tell the Australian High Commission they have arrested an Australian citizen. This is especially the case if you're a dual national.
If police arrest or detain you, ask them to notify the Australian High Commission straight away.
Penalties for drug offences are severe and can lead to life in jail. Carrying even small amounts of an illegal drug can result in jail time.
More information:
Buying property in the north of Cyprus can be risky. Legal titles to land can be uncertain.
When the conflict of 1974 displaced people in the north, many had claims of ownership to property.
It's a crime to buy, sell or rent property without the consent of the owner.
Get legal advice before signing a property contract.
It's also a crime to intend to purchase disputed property. Officials may consider your possession of property pamphlets from the north as evidence of intent to purchase.
If you cross the Green Line with documents about buying property in northern Cyprus, you could face criminal proceedings.
It's illegal in both parts of Cyprus to:
If you're planning to get married in Cyprus, check the legal requirements before you travel.
More information:
Some Australian criminal laws still apply when you're overseas. If you break these laws, you may face prosecution in Australia.
More information:
Under local laws, you could be a national of Cyprus if you have a family connection to Cyprus.
Dual Australian-Cypriot nationals may have to do national service. This may apply if you're:
Female dual nationals may have civil defence obligations. This may apply if you're:
If you're a male dual national aged 16 to 26 years, you need an exit permit to leave Cyprus. You can get a permit from either the:
If you are or could be a national of Cyprus, check about national service before you travel. Ask the Cypriot Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
If you're in northern Cyprus you might have to do military service if you:
Check with the relevant authorities (Cypriot Greek) before you travel.
Officials may reduce the length of your national service if you show evidence of long-term residency in Australia.
Get a copy of your movements in and out of Australia as evidence of residency. Make a 'Request for International Movement Records' to the Department of Home Affairs.
You'll need this documentation if you:
More information:
You don't need a tourist visa to visit Cyprus for stays of up to 90 days in a 6-month period.
If you plan to stay longer, you need to apply for a visa. An application can be made in-country.
If you overstay your visa, officials may charge you with breaching immigration rules.
Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. Contact the nearest embassy or consulate for details about visas, currency, customs and quarantine rules.
More information:
Entry to Cyprus
Commercial flights to and from Cyprus have resumed and seaports have reopened. All travellers to the Republic of Cyprus must present a Cyprus Flight Pass before boarding. Failure to do so can incur a 300 euro penalty or deportation.
All travellers must take a COVID-19 (PCR) test on arrival. From 6 February 2021, all travellers from a designated Category A or B location must self-isolate for 72 hours and take a further COVID-19 (PCR) test at their own expense 72 hours after arrival.
If you've travelled from or had an overnight transit in a Category B you are required to have a PCR test done 72 hours prior to travel. You’ll need to present the PCR test prior to aircraft boarding and Cyprus border control.
If you’ve been to or had an overnight transit in a Category C country in the preceding 14 days, you won’t be allowed to enter unless you're a Cyprus citizen, permanent resident or have a special permission. You’ll need to have a negative PCR test done 72 hours prior to travel, and undertake a test at own expense 48 hours before the end of the mandatory 14 day self-isolation.
PCR test certificates can be in a form of a letter, e-mail or SMS, but must:
International arrivals are being randomly tested at the airport for COVID-19. You may be refused entry if you don’t comply.
Turkish Cypriot authorities have placed caps on inbound passenger flights. Outbound flight availability may be affected.
If you have travelled to north Cyprus via Turkey you’ll need to submit a negative PCR test result, which has been issued within 72 hours before departure. You’ll need to undergo a mandatory quarantine for seven days and undertake a PCR test at day seven. Unless you are resident of north Cyprus, you'll need to pay for the cost of quarantine and the PCR test. If the PCR test result is positive the quarantine period may be extended. Contact the Turkish Cypriot authorities for further advice.
Limassol Port is only open for commercial purposes. The boarding and disembarking of cruise ships by passengers is prohibited.
If you're a sailor or a crew member on vessels docked in Cyprus, or arrive on a pleasure boat from a Category A country, no entry restrictions apply.
If you arrive from, or made a port call to Category B country within the previous 14 days, you’ll need to present a negative COVID-19 certificate issued within 72 hours of departure, or undertake one at place of anchorage and remain on board the boat until the result has been issued.
If you’ve been to or transited any other country in the preceding 14 days, you’ll need to self-isolate on the boat for 14 days, and you’ll only be allowed disembarkation following a negative COVID-19 test. You may need to meet the cost of the test.
Current regulations prevent crossing north or south of the checkpoints in Cyprus, with few exceptions. Refer to local authorities the latest advice: http://www.pio.gov.cy/coronavirus/eng.
When possible to do so, crossing the Republic of Cyprus-controlled checkpoints is only allowed for permanent legal residents of the Republic of Cyprus.
To cross you’ll need to provide proof of your Cyprus citizenship or residency, and present a negative COVID-19 test certificate, issued in English, within 24 hours (72 hours for Limnitis crossing) at both Republic of Cyprus controlled and Turkish-Cypriot controlled checkpoints.
There's a curfew across Cyprus between 9pm and 5am. Travel outside of the home is limited to twice per day, is controlled by a text messaging system, and only be for the purposes of emergency medical reasons (to/from a pharmacy, hospital, veterinarian), grocery collection and for exercise. Essential workers are exempt.
Face masks are compulsory outdoors and inside commercial and public spaces (shopping malls, banks, supermarkets, hospitals, churches, elevators, public sector institutions, theatres, cinemas, and betting shops) when there is more than one person. Children under 12, people exercising, those travelling in personal vehicles, and those who, for health reasons, are unable to wear masks are exempt.
There are restrictions on mass gatherings. Social gatherings in private are prohibited. Public gatherings, including protests, are prohibited.
There are restrictions on private and public sector operations (hospitality, entertainment, shopping centres and government services). Services and operating hours may be affected. There are also restrictions on religious and ceremonial services. Playgrounds, theme parks, amusement parks, camping sites, conferences, exhibitions and other assembly venues are closed until further notice.
Team sports and social activities, such as sport, are prohibited. All training and team sports for individuals under 18 are banned. Visits are prohibited to public and private hospitals, clinics, medical and diagnostic centers and aged care facilities. The operation and use of organised sports facilities are prohibited.
Cyprus is randomly testing segments of the population for COVID-19. You should comply if you're asked to take the test.
A full list of latest measures and restrictions can be viewed here.
In north Cyprus, face masks must be warn in public at all times. You may be arrested and fined if you don’t comply. Social gathering are limited to 100 people outside, and 50 people or less inside depending on the size of the space. There are restrictions on most private sector activities, including entertainment venues, nightclubs, taverns, casinos, beauty centres, discos, theatres, fairs and massage parlours. Birthday and family celebrations are limited to immediate family members.
If staying in Cyprus:
More information:
The following information may not apply while COVID-19 travel restrictions are in place.
There are checkpoints between the south and north of Cyprus.
Immigration officials might refuse entry to Cyprus if they have concerns about previous or planned travel to the north. This includes accommodation in the north or planned activities, such as commercial, academic or employment activities.
Entry to Cyprus is only legal through:
It's illegal to enter or exit the Republic of Cyprus via any air or sea port in northern Cyprus.
Illegal entry ports include:
Only enter the UN Buffer Zone at formal crossing points. Police and UN forces strictly enforce this.
Some countries won’t let you enter unless your passport is valid for 6 months after you plan to leave that country. This can apply even if you’re just transiting or stopping over.
Some foreign governments and airlines apply the rule inconsistently. Travellers can receive conflicting advice from different sources.
You can end up stranded if your passport is not valid for more than 6 months.
The Australian Government does not set these rules. Check your passport’s expiry date before you travel. If you’re not sure it’ll be valid for long enough, consider getting a new passport.
Your passport is a valuable document. It's attractive to people who may try to use your identity to commit crimes.
Some people may try to trick you into giving them your passport. Always keep it in a safe place.
If your passport is lost or stolen, tell the Australian Government as soon as possible:
The official currency of the Republic of Cyprus is the Euro.
The principal currency in the north is the Turkish Lira, although you can use euros in many businesses.
The Republic of Cyprus, in the south, doesn't accept the Turkish Lira.
Declare amounts over 10,000 euros or equivalent if you're travelling between Cyprus and any non-European Union (EU) country. This covers all forms of currency, not only cash.
You don't need to declare it if you're travelling to or from another EU country.
Officials will fine you if you don't declare it or declare the wrong amount when entering or leaving Cyprus.
ATMs are widely available in tourist locations. You can use major credit cards in most places.
The following information will only apply once COVID-19 travel restrictions are lifted.
Turkish-Cypriot authorities in the north issue residence permits, identity cards and other documents. Be aware that the Republic of Cyprus and other countries may not recognise these documents.
Use your Australian passport for all travel into or out of Cyprus and Turkey.
Turkey does not accept 'Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus' ID cards as entry or travel documents.
If you arrive through legal ports of entry in the south, you can cross into the north.
You'll need to show your passport to officials when entering and leaving the north. Turkish-Cypriot authorities may stamp your passport. Evidence of travel to and from the north may lead to questions by Republic of Cyprus authorities and other countries.
You can take private vehicles or hire cars through checkpoints from the south to the north. However, you can't take hire cars from the north to the south. No cars can cross at Ledra Street and Ledra Palace.
Check your car insurance to ensure you have coverage for the area you want to drive through. Car hire companies offer insurance. Be aware that their insurance may only cover you in the north or the south.
If you plan to travel to other regional destinations, read the travel advice of these countries. Some countries may refuse you entry if your passport or luggage contains evidence of travel to the non-government controlled north.
Republic of Cyprus authorities have deemed some accommodation in the north illegal. The Republic of Cyprus has warned visitors about staying in this accommodation.
Check Cypriot Government websites for details. See 'Visas' above.
You may need to present your goods for inspection when you cross between the north and south.
Strict controls apply to items bought in the north, including:
Republic of Cyprus police or customs authorities may confiscate these items. They may also fine you.
Customs authorities in northern Cyprus enforce a limit on the purchase of goods in the south.
Both sides enforce quarantine rules on food.
More information:
You can only use your Australian driver's licence for 6 months from your date of arrival.
You'll need to obtain a local driving licence to continue to drive after 6 months. To get a local licence, refer to the Road Transport Department.
The minimum age for driving is 18 years.
Road accidents are a major risk.
Most roads are of a good standard but some secondary and mountain roads are poorly maintained.
Driving practices can be poor. Drivers often:
Be careful crossing roads, as traffic may not follow signals.
Be aware of quad bikes on roads.
The UN and military restricts access to roads in the UN Buffer Zone. Parts of this zone have landmines.
If you plan to drive:
More information:
Check with your insurer if your policy covers you using a motorbike, quad bike, dune buggy or similar vehicle.
A lot of serious injuries and deaths from quad bike accidents happen each year, particularly in tourist areas. Follow directions on where you can and can't ride quad bikes or similar vehicles.
Always wear a helmet.
Use only authorised taxi and limousine services. Arrange them through your hotel if possible.
Unofficial taxis may overcharge.
Bus services operate throughout Cyprus.
Theft can occur on public transport. Take care of your belongings.
More information:
Before taking a ferry or other boat, make sure it has the right safety gear. A number of international cruise lines stop over in Cyprus.
More information:
DFAT doesn't provide information on the safety of individual commercial airlines or flight paths.
Check Cyprus' air safety profile with the Aviation Safety Network.
More information:
Depending on what you need, contact your:
Call 112.
Call 112.
COVID-19 medical hotline: 1420
COVID-19 information hotline: 1412
COVID-19 protocols and guidelines: covid@moh.gov.cy
Call 199.
Call 155.
COVID-19 hotline: 1102
Always get a police report when you report a crime.
Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.
Emergency operators may not speak English.
Contact your provider with any complaints about tourist services or products.
Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
For consular help, contact the Australian High Commission in Nicosia.
7th Floor, Block A
Alpha Business Centre
27 Pindarou Street
1060 Nicosia, Cyprus
Phone: (+357) 2229 7555
Fax: (+357) 2276 6486
Email: nicosia.ahc@dfat.gov.au
Website: cyprus.highcommission.gov.au
Facebook: Australia in Cyprus
Twitter: @AusHCCyprus
Check the High Commission website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.
In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:
Contact your provider with any complaints about tourist services or products.
Read the Consular Services Charter for what the Australian Government can and can't do to help you overseas.
For consular help, contact the Australian High Commission in Nicosia.
7th Floor, Block A
Alpha Business Centre
27 Pindarou Street
1060 Nicosia, Cyprus
Phone: (+357) 2229 7555
Fax: (+357) 2276 6486
Email: nicosia.ahc@dfat.gov.au
Website: cyprus.highcommission.gov.au
Facebook: Australia in Cyprus
Twitter: @AusHCCyprus
Check the High Commission website for details about opening hours and any temporary closures.
In a consular emergency, if you can't contact an embassy, call the 24-hour Consular Emergency Centre on:
Be the first to know official government advice when travelling.